Richard Duel Allen

Richard Duel Allen, age 76, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 12, 2026, in Rusk, Texas—marking both the completion of a beautiful life and his 76th birthday.Richard was born on September 12, 1950, in Leavenworth, Kansas, to the late Duel and Nellie Jane Allen. Raised in Dallas, Texas, he demonstrated a strong work ethic early on, completing his education course and receiving his GED. Richard went on to proudly serve his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he built a dedicated career as an electrical engineer at MP Industries, where he worked for more than 30 years before retiring.In 1996, Richard married the love of his life, Karen Lynn Allen. Together, they shared 30 beautiful years of marriage and raised a large, loving family of five children. Richard was a man who appreciated the simple pleasures of life. In his spare time, he could often be found golfing with his coworkers, hunting for unique glassware, or buying and selling treasures on eBay. He also loved pressing his luck with lottery tickets, always enjoyed alongside a short, smooth glass of whiskey.Richard is preceded in death by his parents, Duel and Nellie Allen; his brothers, Charles Allen, David Franklin, and Harold Franklin; his sister, Lana Kilgore; and his brother-in-law, Michael Martin.His legacy lives on through his surviving family. He is survived by his devoted wife, Karen Allen; his brother, Chris Williamson and wife, Sylvia; and his sister, Tammy Martin. He leaves behind his children: son, Michael Allen and wife, Sarah; and daughters, Tabitha Hitt and husband, Jake, and Samantha Ishee and husband, Jason. He was the proud grandfather to eight grandchildren: Gracie Mueller, Aubry Way-Mueller, Cash Ishee, Ian Nuon, Brady Green, Ryann Green, Ibrahim Allen, and Mariam Allen. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews: Brandi Beasley-Grier, Megan Martin, Josh Beasley, Cassandra Broussard, Cody Tenario, Misty Kilgore, Amanda Kilgore, and Nathan Kilgore, alongside many extended family members and close friends.